You were just short of 100 years, but that wasn’t your biggest accomplishment. From the stories I’ve been told, you made great accomplishments in your life. You stood up for your rights when women were seen more as background noise than people. You stood up for yourself, even when that meant compromising your family. You moved out to spare your dignity and protect yourself. You became a wife at 17, in hopes of making advancements toward a better life. You did all of this in the first fifth of your life.

You were a role model to many. A woman filled with grace and wisdom. Each grandchild has a specific story they recall about you. The admiration in their voice is evident, even when it is a comedic story. That’s the affect you had on everyone around you.

I remember when you moved in with me. I recall it being one of the best days in that house. You brought your style, and mini, pink plastic shopping carts for Mercedes and I. They were filled with plastic food – a perfect addition for our pretend kitchens. You even helped me open it, set it up and you played with me. I’ll never forget that day. We ate fudge bars and played kitchen together, it is one of my fondest memories.

I remember during that time, I convinced Anna to purchase a hideous green shirt for me. It was long-sleeved and the color mimicked a traffic light. I cut off the sleeves because I believed the shirt would be better as a tank top (still hideous) and I gave you the sleeves, so your arms wouldn’t get cold. As I presented you with these jagged, thin sleeves, you smiled and said, “Thank you.” I remember being ecstatic because you were going to have warm arms. Today, I know you probably didn’t use them as arm warmers, but you still accepted my “gift.” You didn’t scoff at them, you didn’t poke fun at me for being a silly kid, you just accepted it. I may not have known you well, but I know enough to know that that encounter was a reflection of your character. You were just as warm as I intended those sleeves to be and were filled with just as much love as you were warmth.

Even yesterday, you still had that same warmth to you, that same kindness. I hope that I too can radiate that same warmth and affection that you did in your lifetime. I may not accomplish all that you did in your time here, but I can assure you that I will maintain the praise your name has received. It is an honor to be named after such a beautiful, courageous person like you. You have inspired me to become the woman I've always wanted to be. Thank you.